A website prescribed a potentially fatal dose of viagra to a man claiming to suffer from a heart complaint, according to Health Which?

Direct Response Marketing sent the drug to a researcher posing as a 45-year-old man suffering from impotence.

Health Which? found five drug websites willing to dispense the slimming drug Xenical to a man for whom it was not appropriate.

Researchers at the magazine said using online consultations is potentially dangerous.

Dr David Delvin, the Argus doctor columnist, said: "It's barmy to buy medication via the internet.

"The people you are buying from know nothing of your medical history and are not in contact with your GP."

He said anyone using medical sites for advice should make sure they use sites not trying to sell services or products.

Accurate, reliable medical advice is available from Dr Delvin in the weekend edition of the Argus and in the Health section of this site.